On Monday the 27 the of May, the Board arranged a special meeting to welcome three new members into the Auxiliary branch of our Rotary Club. This particular evening was the only time one of our new people was available for Induction, as he was off overseas the following week. During the mix and mingle, a 40 slide PowerPoint of the Auxiliary members community involvement was running. This gave a clear insight of both the impact and the fun they have been having… a very fresh approach to Rotary.
Before the formal induction, we heard from three younger members, introducing themselves and telling us a little about that makes them tick.
First up was Crystal Leung, our 20 year old Engineering Student, with a rather witty PowerPoint that gave us a good insight into her family, her interests and how much she appreciated Rotary Grandpa Duncan’s financial support the enabled her to become a Rotarian.
Next we had Rachel Wong, a 19 year old Health Science student who had prepared a comprehensive electronic display of her achievements during her last year at Pakuranga College. Se too, was gracious in her thanks to Rotary Grandpa Peter Armstrong, for his generous support of her.
Lastly, Joe D’Ambrosio, from the USA and the Hard Materials teacher at Farm Cove Intermediate, told of his decision to settle in NZ with his Kiwi wife and his pride in her achievements.
He then handed Bart a “cheque” for $1,131.00 which was money raised by a couple of Auxiliary members, selling household surplus donated by two Pakuranga Rotary members.
Our new members:
As Duncan was overseas, Bart was on hand to do his very first Induction.
Mary Taylor, who is well known in Rotary circles, delighted us with her decision to join our Auxiliary. Penelope gave us a very professional introduction to Mary: business owner, Industrial trouble shooter, consultant, Marathon Nordic walker and philosophy student, with several PHFs awarded by District for her work in the continuing education of Midwives from the Pacific Islands. Mary is joining this group because she wants to be involved in meaningful projects that make a difference in the community
Govind introduced Sajan Gautam who is in the technology branch of the RNZAF. Sajan was keen to join the Auxiliary as he is totally committed to giving something back to the community. He has already designed and secured an electronic register for our Pest Free Trap Library, as well as our own email system. As his employment means Sajan will be away from Auckland for the next four months, he will be electronically attending all meetings, ensuring he can contribute and take a full part in decisions.
Our newest Rotarian Stephen Johnston was introduced by Kiri. Stephen was born in Oamaru, has had a very interesting and varied career in education, is currently Principal at Pakuranga Intermediate, rides a Harley, lives in Waiau Pa and is married to Deanne, Principal at Nga Iwi School. He has two sons. He is joining the Auxiliary “because it seems to be both active and proactive”
The Club is fortunate to have these new and high calibre people join us. As required by the Auxiliary’s New Member Policy, each of these people has a Buddy, who will ensure they are welcomed and make a smooth transfer into the club.
Welcome to you all. You now have 1.2 million Whanau in 220 countries across the world.